2023 Mazda CX-5 problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
A typical year for this model
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 sits mid-pack among CX-5 years: 82 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 167, with no recalls and no defect investigations. Complainants reported 10 injuries in total across these filings.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across driver assistance (13), other (10), and engine (10), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect. In government crash testing it earned 5 of 5 NCAP stars overall.
82
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
13
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
10
Injuries
0
Deaths
5
NCAP overall · of 5 stars
How does 2023 compare to other CX-5 years?
What are the most common 2023 Mazda CX-5 problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver Assistance | 13 | 16% | ▲ up |
| Other | 10 | 12% | — flat |
| Engine | 10 | 12% | — flat |
| Brakes | 9 | 11% | ▲ up |
| Electrical System | 9 | 11% | ▲ up |
| Visibility & Wipers | 8 | 10% | ▲ up |
| Lighting | 8 | 10% | ▼ down |
| Transmission | 3 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Speed Control | 3 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Steering | 2 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Seat Belts | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Fuel System | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
| Airbags | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
| Seats | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
| Suspension | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Tires & Wheels | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - Smart Brake Support (SBS) & Forward Obstruction Warning system malfunctioned. Front radar sensor malfunctioned. Parking brake malfunctioned. I-activesense system malfunctioned. Emergency lane keep…”
“New 2023 Mazda CX5. We have experienced 2 Unintended Sudden Acceleration episodes. The most recent one was while backing down our driveway, the car suddenly accelerated when the brake was applied causing considerable damage to the car and house. Our front porch camera caught the entire episode…”
“Vehicle is a 2023 Mazda CX-5 Signature Turbo model that had a leaking hydraulic tensioner for the serpentine belt at 15,759 miles. Mazda technician cleaned the hydraulic tensioner, and less than 500 miles later the leak returned. This is common enough in the community to expand TSBâs on this part.”
“Brand new 2023 Mazda CX-5 with 150 miles on it experienced unintended acceleration while braking. Pulled into a parking spot with my foot on the brakes but the car didn't stop & even accelerated over a sidewalk and into a building. I experienced a bruise from the seatbelt. Airbags did not deploy.…”
“Brand new 2023 Mazda CX-5 with 150 miles on it experienced unintended acceleration while braking. Pulled into a parking spot with my foot on the brakes but the car didn't stop & even accelerated over a sidewalk and into a building. I experienced a bruise from the seatbelt. Airbags did not deploy.…”
2023 Mazda CX-5 — common questions
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-5 reliable?
Its record is better than the model's norm: 82 NHTSA complaints, below the typical CX-5 year, with 0 recalls and no open investigations.
What are the most common 2023 CX-5 problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are driver assistance (13 complaints), other (10 complaints), engine (10 complaints).
Does the 2023 Mazda CX-5 have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2023 Mazda CX-5.
Which Mazda CX-5 years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the CX-5 years to avoid are 2016, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2013. The cleanest record among CX-5 years belongs to 2012.
How safe is the 2023 Mazda CX-5?
In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 earned an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.